Humiliated and isolated’: Bagalkot families seek action after village boycott

Bagalkot, : Seven families in Hunasikatti village have alleged social boycott after refusing to pay ₹600 towards a local temple fair, in an incident that has sparked outrage and concern.

The boycott was reportedly announced through a public drumbeat proclamation following the Hanuman temple festival fund collection drive in early April. Families who did not contribute were declared socially untouchable.

As per the diktat, priests were barred from visiting their homes, villagers were told not to interact with them, and even essential supplies were denied. “We are being punished for exercising our choice. This has caused immense mental stress and social humiliation,” said one of the affected members.

Yallappa Chagannavar, a railway employee, has taken the lead in challenging the boycott. “We have approached authorities seeking justice. Such practices cannot be allowed in today’s society,” he said. The families have filed a formal complaint with local administration, urging strict legal action against those who enforced the boycott.

Authorities, including revenue officials, have intervened and held discussions with villagers to restore normalcy. However, the affected families say mere mediation is not enough.

“This is not just about us. It is about stopping such practices from continuing elsewhere,” Chagannavar added. The incident underscores the continued prevalence of regressive social practices despite legal safeguards, and highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement and awareness in rural communities.